Services
Valuation
Professional property valuation for various needs, including sales, purchases, and financial planning.
Level 2 RICS Home Survey
A mid-level survey assessing property condition, highlighting urgent issues and maintenance advice.
Level 3 Home
Survey
Building Report – A thorough structural inspection for older properties, with repair recommendations.
Engineers
Report
A specialist report evaluating structural concerns, often required for mortgage or insurance purposes.
Historical Building survey
In-depth assessment of heritage properties, covering materials, conservation needs, and potential restrictions.
Re-instatement cost assessment
Fire insurance valuation for residential properties, ensuring adequate coverage for rebuilding costs.
Valuation
The general condition of the property is taken into account when preparing a valuation, as factors such as structural integrity, age, and any visible defects may influence the market value. However, a valuation report does not include an in-depth inspection of the property’s condition, nor does it provide detailed advice on repairs or potential defects.
It is important to note that a valuation is not a full survey but serves as a professional assessment of the property’s market worth. It can be used for various purposes, including property purchases, Help to Buy applications, shared ownership arrangements, sales, relocations, part-exchange agreements, compulsory purchase orders, and probate matters. While it provides a reliable indication of value, those seeking a more detailed analysis of a property’s condition should consider a Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey.
Level 2 RICS Home Survey
RICS Level 2 Home Survey is most suitable for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition and are simple in form and layout (for example, a property that does not have multiple alterations or extensions). The report gives you more detailed information about the property and ideas about future repairs or maintenance that may be required.
Level 2 can be a survey only, or a survey and a valuation:
Level 2 Home Survey (survey only)
Includes all the features of the Home Survey Level 1, plus a more extensive roof space and drainage chamber inspection. It provides advice on defects that may affect the property and highlights any maintenance or repairs that may be needed. Choose an RICS Level 2 Home Survey for more detailed information when buying or selling a conventional house, flat, or bungalow in reasonable condition.
Level 2 Home Survey (survey and valuation)
Includes all the features of the RICS Level 2 Home Survey, plus a market valuation and insurance reinstatement figure to help you avoid under- or over-insurance. It provides the same level of detail as the RICS Level 2 Home Survey while also offering a valuation for added financial clarity. Choose this option if you require a complete assessment with a market valuation included for peace of mind.
Engineers Report/Building Pathology
Our Engineers Report provides a detailed assessment of defects in buildings of all types, from residential homes to commercial properties. This report is often required when a Valuation Survey for loan security highlights concerns that need further investigation.
We specialise in diagnosing structural issues such as subsidence, cracking, and flat roof leaks, as well as defects affecting building integrity. Our comprehensive analysis not only identifies the cause and impact of these problems but also includes expert recommendations for remediation, along with estimated repair costs.
This report is essential for property owners, buyers, and lenders who need a clear understanding of a building’s condition and the necessary steps for maintenance or repair.
Level 3 RICS Home Survey - Building Report
A Level 3 Home Survey, also known as a Building Report, is the most comprehensive property survey available. Designed for buyers who require a detailed evaluation of a property’s condition, this in-depth report provides a thorough analysis of the structure, materials, and any existing or potential defects.
Our survey includes expert advice on a wide range of issues, including structural movement, damp, timber decay, roofing problems, and outdated or failing installations. The report also offers guidance on necessary repairs, estimated costs, and long-term maintenance considerations, helping you make informed decisions about your purchase or renovation plans.
A Level 3 Building Report is highly recommended for:
- Older, large, or neglected properties that may have hidden issues.
- Buildings with non-standard construction or unique architectural features.
- Properties that have been significantly altered or extended.
- Homes where major refurbishment or structural work is planned.
By choosing a Level 3 Home Survey, you gain the confidence and clarity needed to assess potential risks, negotiate effectively, and ensure your investment is secure.
Historic Building Survey
Over the years we have been lucky to carry out surveys of many fine period and listed buildings. As Chartered Building Surveyors, we find this type of property perhaps the most interesting, although all have their charm.
This experience has allowed us to develop the ‘Historic Building Survey’. This is similar in many ways to the full building survey and has the same construction, costings, recommendations for repair and support documentation.
It is however aimed at those properties which carry special responsibilities because of their listed status. There are a number of special points which apply to listed buildings only.
For example, works that have been carried out since listing that are not appropriate or do not have Listed Building Consent, will be identified.
Repair of these buildings also require special consideration and techniques to comply with Listed Building Legislation and we will help with guidance on how best to repair such buildings to prevent progressive deterioration.
Re-Instatement Cost Assessment – Fire Insurance Costs (Residential Units Only)
Our Reinstatement Cost Assessment service ensures that your property is adequately insured by providing an accurate estimate of the cost to rebuild in the event of a fire or other disaster. This service can be provided as a standalone assessment or as part of a comprehensive Building Survey.
The assessment involves measuring the entire property, including outbuildings, boundaries, car parks, and service areas, and calculating the full reconstruction cost. This includes various hidden costs, such as demolition and site clearance, professional fees, and VAT where applicable. The assessment follows RICS Guidance Notes, with bespoke calculations available for more complex buildings.
Key Inclusions:
- Measuring buildings, outbuildings, grounds, and boundaries.
- Calculating the cost of full reconstruction.
- Factoring in demolition, site clearance, and redesign fees.
- Ensuring compliance with RICS Guidance Notes.
- Providing bespoke calculations for complex buildings.
This service is essential to prevent underinsurance and ensure full coverage in the event of a rebuild.
Frequently Asked Questions
A valuation is a brief report providing an opinion of market value, often used for purposes like purchase, shared ownership, or probate. It is not a survey and does not include an in-depth inspection of the property's condition.
The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is ideal for conventional properties in reasonable condition. It provides detailed information on the property and includes advice on future repairs and maintenance. You can opt for a survey only or a survey with a valuation.
The Level 3 Home Survey is the most comprehensive option, offering an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition. It includes advice on defects, repairs, and maintenance. This survey is recommended for older, altered, or large properties, as well as buildings requiring significant work.
An Engineers Report focuses on identifying defects in buildings, including structural issues, roof leaks, and other concerns. It is often required when a valuation survey highlights potential issues that need further investigation.
A Historic Building Survey is tailored for listed and period properties. It includes construction details, repair recommendations, and guidance on compliance with Listed Building Legislation. It also identifies inappropriate alterations made without Listed Building Consent.
A Reinstatement Cost Assessment calculates the cost of rebuilding a property in case of fire or damage. It includes measurements of buildings and surrounding areas and accounts for hidden costs like demolition, consultant fees, and VAT, ensuring adequate insurance coverage.